Your Visa Guide: Turkey Transit Visa Information & Hong Kong Visa Processing Time

BY  Ankita Jun 13, 2024

Saudi Arabia is known for its diversity. When it comes to amusing visitors with unusual natural beauty, historical facts, and cultural traditions, Saudi Arabia attracts a large number of tourists. However, do you know what attracts visitors the most about Saudi Arabia?  Well, it's historical landmarks that make people feel curious about the kingdom. In this regard, Madain Saleh or Hegra and Al Ula Valley come first. These places make up a significant part of the Arabian history.  What's interesting is that these places also seem peaceful and quiet for pilgrims. That's why many Cheap Umrah packages allow pilgrims to visit Al Ula Valley and Hegra during their pilgrimage.  However, how do you prepare for the journey? And if you are a traveler, how can you get there on your own? Well, you need a complete guide about each step on the way. Therefore, we come up with this visiting guide for visitors and pilgrims. So, it becomes easier to get in the past following the guide below. Visiting Guide to Hegra and Al Ula Valley History attracts everyone. The way how our ancestors lived and survived sparks our suspense. So, it's not necessary why you are going to visit Saudi Arabia. Visiting historical landmarks is permanent anyway. The same goes with pilgrims, visitors, and curious ones.  For pilgrims, umrah packages in the USA make it easier to explore Saudi Arabia with ease. These packages facilitate the transfer of pilgrims and ensure their comfort on the way. The same goes with the 10 Nights 4 star Umrah package that helps pilgrims manage time and budget in one place. However, travelers or history lovers should plan their journey on their own.  It includes transportation, accommodations, and meals on the way. So, how will you manage to make the most of your trip? Similarly, if you are with family, it becomes essential to plan the right. And that's why you need to read ahead to start planning now. Planning Your Trip to Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia hosts historical sites that capture the interest of visitors worldwide. The most famous ones refer to Madain Saleh and Al Ula. These tourist destinations have a great contribution to promoting tourism in Saudi Arabia and it has also a good reason.  Both these landmarks are unique for their geographic distribution, historical significance, and role in the development of the kingdom. That's what makes visitors curious about the land.  So, plan a trip to Saudi Arabia to explore history. The right time to visit Saudi Arabia is from October to April. As we all know, weather makes or breaks our adventure. So, avoid planning a visit to Saudi Arabia during the summer season to experience a pleasant trip. The next step is to perform legal formalities like obtaining a visa document to enter the kingdom. As a visitor, you'll apply for a tourist visa with multiple entries to Saudi Arabia until it's valid.  However, if you are planning to explore history during the pilgrimage, get an Umrah visa through Umrah packages. Budget-friendly options are also available out there like the 10 Nights 4 star Umrah package.  Apply online on the eVisa portal to get a Saudi visa document. Fill out the application form carefully and attach the required documents to ensure visa approval. In addition, it's better to have travel insurance for first-time travelers. It's because travel insurance saves visitors during emergency situations and helps them under unforeseen circumstances. Transportation and Accommodation Since Saudi Arabia promotes tourism, it makes it easier for visitors to travel along the way. Therefore, you have a couple of travel options when it comes to visiting Madain Saleh and Al Ula.  The first one is ground transportation, which covers public transport and private cars while the second one is air travel from airports of Riyadh or Jeddah. So, what to choose to get there? It really depends on the availability of time and planning.  For example, pilgrims are short on time and require time management. So, it's better to opt for air travel through direct flight. Similarly, if you are a tourist and want to explore Saudi Arabia while traveling by bus, choose ground transportation.  Once you are in the target place, it's time to look for accommodations. As pilgrims often plan a short trip to Al Ula and Madain Saleh, Umrah packages do not provide accommodations. However, tourists need to book comfortable hotels for living as per their scheduled trips.  The popular options are Shaden Resort and Habitas Al Ula which provide luxury experiences to visitors. However, there are also guest houses and budget hotels that serve visitors at low cost.  Those who want to have fun with family or friends can try camping near their target destination, which will add an adventurous touch to your stay. Exploring Madain Saleh Nabataean civilizations were significant in the past for their traditional ways of living and survival. The present landmarks that represent this civilization refer to Madain Saleh or Hegra and Petra in Jordan. These sites present the remains of ancient people and their art views on the rocks that make everyone curious about their lives.  UNESCO World Heritage recognizes Madain Saleh for its unique beauty and preservation. It's like an open-air museum with a mystery of living secrets. Visitors capture the arts on rocks and try to get back into their lives.  However, are you going to visit the whole landmark? Obviously, you want to visit the famous places to make the most of your time. For that reason, include Qasr Al Farid, Jabal Ithlib, and Diwan, which attract visitors for their natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. Under the clear sky and during the sunset, these landmarks turn into magical elements everyone wants to remember forever.  Now, what do you think about how you will visit the Madain Saleh? Through a guided tour or a self-adventure? Well, it's pretty easy to decide that first-time travelers should go for guided tours. Professional guides let you know the things you will never learn yourself. However, if you have visited Hegra before, you can visit it yourself and have an adventure anyway. Exploring Al Ula  Similar to Madain Saleh, Al Ula is also home to ancient civilizations. The place represents the living and trading skills of earlier Arabs that ultimately contributed to the development of the kingdom.  During the history of hundreds of years, Al Ula preserves the beauty of ancient people and keeps their traditions alive. In short, Al Ula offers a mix of nature and history in one place. This is a reason visitors include Al Ula in their target list to visit. Pilgrims also plan group tours to Al Ula to experience once-in-a-lifetime beauty. And the best thing is that Umrah packages also facilitate such tours so that pilgrims can have a good time.  Al Ula is famous for the places like Al Ula's old town, Al Khuraiba, and ancient rocks. The giant tombs and their traditional building take visitors back in the past. Another must-see view in Al Ula is an elephant rock that looks huge. The rock undergoes natural rock formation processes that add to its beauty uniquely.  What else you can do there? Well, Al Ula Valley allows you to try activities like hiking, climbing, and stargazing. Families can camp under the sky and experience stargazing together. Tips for Pilgrims  Since pilgrims are short on time, they want to make the most of their time. They also look for places that have a religious background or at least offer serenity to their visit. This is because the main purpose of their visit is to perform a pilgrimage. All they want to experience is something unique and relaxing while connecting with their spirituality as well. So, should they visit historical landmarks?  Is visiting Madain Saleh and Al Ula worth their time? First things first, historical places offer a lot more to learn in a short time. They present the history of people and their ways of living and faith that help pilgrims relate with them. Similarly, Madain Saleh and Al Ula represent the history of people before Islam came to Saudi Arabia. Therefore, pilgrims learn more about how people used to live before the onset of Islam.  Not only this, the Saudi government also takes care of the pilgrim experience in every aspect. Therefore, it also maintains spiritual places at such a historical place that serve pilgrims even during their trip. For instance, Madain Saleh and Al Ula are home to traditional mosques that give a unique experience of offering prayers there. So, don't worry about your daily prayers or a Friday prayer, as you can offer them while visiting the history of Arabs. Final Words In conclusion, visiting Madain Saleh and Al Ula is easier than you think. All you have to do is take a start from planning your journey, like booking accommodations and transportation. After arriving at your target locations, ensure experience guided tours to explore hidden aspects of Hegra and Al Ula and that's it. Read Also: Future Of Travel, Skift Global Forum East 2023, Takes Off In Dubai! From Beaches To Mountains: Ideal Routes For Car Travel In Dubai Best Time To Experience Dubai: The City Of Gold

BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 13, 2023

No frequent traveler will argue that the airport parking cost is the biggest problem they face while planning a trip. The parking price, along with the airfares and other associated expenses, can add up considerably with cheap parking. Depending on the airport and the duration of the journey, travelers can end up paying hundreds of dollars just to park their car. This can be especially difficult for those who are on a budget or have to travel frequently. Actually, any US airport won't be an exception. Traveling from Chicago, Illinois, people are hungry for the answer to the following question: is it possible to find cheap parking near O'Hare Airport? Let's deal with it and take a closer look at the solution we've found for you. How Much Does It Cost To Leave Your Vehicle At The Chicago O'Hare International Airport? First of all, we'd like to confirm the fact – ​​cheap parking at O'Hare Airport is really expensive. Here's the table with prices the airport offers travelers: Parking Type Daily Rate O'Hare Parking Garage Fees (For daily) 42$ Fees O'Hare Daily Parking (Lot B & C) 42$ 5 O'Hare Terminal Parking Fees 77$ Economy Parking O'Hare Ticket Fees  Of Economy Lot F 22$ Economy Parking O'Hare Fees Economy Lot G & F 15$ *The rates are valid at the moment of publishing You can see that even the budget option will cost you at least $15.00. In other cases, you would be charged daily fees ranging from $42.00 to $77.00, depending on the lot you choose. Also, there is one more difficulty – since on-site airport parking has limited availability, it'll be complicated to find a free spot among a bunch of cars. So how can we solve such a problem? Here's your best solution – O'Hare off-site parking provided by ParkingNearAirports.io! We decided to do our own research and find the best solution for every traveler. And we're happy to say that we've done it – ParkingNearAirports.io is a smart booking platform that provides you with an off-site parking facility that is only a few miles away from the airport you're departing from. What Are The Best Alternative Ways To Save Money By Using Cheap Parking Near O'Hare Airport? The service offers several options for O'Hare long-term cheap parking, as well as multiple amenities, which will make your departure absolutely convenient, including high-quality service, convenient locations, a free speedy shuttle to and from airport terminals, valet service, and free luggage assistance. Use Online Parking Reservation Platforms Online platforms like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, and AirportParkingReservations.com allow you to compare prices and reserve cheap parking spots in advance at a discounted rate. Consider Off-Airport Parking Parking lots located outside the airport may offer cheaper rates than on-site airport parking. Look for options that offer shuttle services to the airport terminals. Look For Discount Codes And Coupons Check the parking lot's website or search cheap parking options online for discount codes and coupons that can help you save money on parking fees. Choose Economy Parking O'Hare airport offers an economy cheap parking lot option that is cheaper than other on-site parking options. The economy lot is located farther from the airport terminals, but a shuttle service is provided to transport passengers to and from the lot. Take Advantage Of Hotel Parking Packages Some hotels near O'Hare airport offer parking packages that include a night's stay and parking for a certain number of days. This can be a cost-effective option if you need to park for several days. Consider Car-Sharing Or Ride-Hailing Services If you live close to the airport, using car-sharing or ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft can be a cost-effective alternative to parking your car at the airport. Conclusion Be clever and only spend part of your fortune on cheap airport parking! Better take a closer look at PNA's cheap parking rates by following this link and make sure that parking might cost you up to 70% less. So use the discount airport parking services from ParkingNearAirports.io and afford your following journey to go smoothly! Read Also: 25 Amazing Things to do in Ladakh  

BY  Barsha Dec 29, 2023

Located in the rolling hills of the Southern Appalachians, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a haven of natural beauty and a treasure trove of outdoor activities. Spanning across Tennessee and North Carolina, this national park attracts millions of visitors each year, drawn by its lush forests, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or just someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the Great Smoky Mountains offer something for everyone. From scenic drives to tranquil hikes, the park's varied landscapes promise unforgettable adventures. In this article, we'll explore seven fun and exciting things to do in this majestic national park. Each activity is a doorway to the unique charm and splendor of the Smokies, guaranteeing an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Exploring Cades Cove One of the park's most beloved areas is Cades Cove, a verdant valley surrounded by mountains and steeped in history. Here, visitors can take a step back in time as they explore the preserved homesteads, churches, and barns of early settlers. The 11-mile, one-way loop road around the cove offers stunning views and is perfect for a leisurely drive or bicycle ride, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when wildlife is most active. You can often spot deer, black bears, and wild turkeys in this area, making it a prime spot for wildlife viewing. Additionally, several trails, such as the Abrams Falls Trail and the Cades Cove Nature Trail, offer more intimate encounters with the area's natural beauty. Whether you're capturing the scenic landscapes with your camera or simply soaking in the tranquility, Cades Cove is a must-visit destination within the park. Hiking To Clingman Dome Another highlight of the Great Smoky Mountains is Clingman Dome, the highest point in the park and all of Tennessee. Standing at 6,643 feet, it offers panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. The journey to the top begins with a steep half-mile walk on a paved trail, which, though challenging, is rewarding with its sweeping vistas. At the top, the observation tower provides 360-degree views of the smokies, with visibility up to 100 miles on clear days. The cool, spruce-fir forest that surrounds Clingmans Dome is a refreshing change from the lower elevations and is home to a variety of birds and plants unique to the area. The best times to visit are either early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and to fully embrace the serene beauty of the mountains. Experiencing The Appalachian Trail The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a proud part of the famous Appalachian Trail, a long-distance footpath that stretches over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine. Within the park, the trail spans about 70 miles and offers a range of hiking experiences. For those not ready for a multi-day hike, day hikes to Charlies Bunion, a rocky outcrop with exceptional views, or to the Max Patch, a bald mountain with 360-degree mountain vistas, are great options. Hiking on the Appalachian Trail is like walking through a living museum of natural history. You might see blooming wildflowers in spring, hear the song of warblers in summer, or watch leaves change colors in fall. It’s a must-do for hikers, offering a chance to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the mountains. Wildlife Watching Opportunities Wildlife watching is a favorite activity in the park. The national park is home to a diverse range of animals, including black bears, elk, white-tailed deer, and numerous bird species. Cades Cove and Cataloochee Valley are excellent spots for wildlife viewing, especially in the early morning or late evening. Remember to keep a safe distance from all wildlife and use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for a closer look. Spring and fall are particularly good times to see animals as they are more active during these seasons. Enjoying Picnicking And Camping Picnicking and camping in the Great Smoky Mountains are great ways to immerse yourself in the park's natural beauty. There are several picnic areas throughout the park, many of which are beside streams or rivers, offering a peaceful setting for a meal outdoors. For a more extended stay, the park offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds with amenities to backcountry sites for those seeking a more rustic experience. Camping under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature, is an excellent way for families and friends to connect and create lasting memories. Make sure to book your campsite in advance, especially during peak seasons, and always follow the park's guidelines for storing food and waste to protect wildlife. Horseback Riding Adventures For a different perspective of the park, consider a horseback riding adventure. Several stables within the park offer guided horseback rides, which typically last one to four hours. Riding through the forest on horseback is a relaxing and enjoyable way to explore the park's natural beauty. You’ll pass through lush forests and cross streams and maybe even spot some wildlife along the way. No prior horseback riding experience is necessary, making this a great activity for the whole family. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear for a safe and comfortable ride. Visiting Historic Buildings And Museums The Great Smoky Mountains are not only rich in natural beauty but also in cultural history. The park preserves numerous historic buildings, including log cabins, barns, churches, and grist mills, which offer a glimpse into the life of early Appalachian settlers. The Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill near Cherokee and the historic buildings in Cades Cove provide educational and interesting experiences for visitors of all ages. Walking through these historic sites, you’ll feel a connection to the past and gain an appreciation for the early settlers' way of life. These sites are easily accessible and provide a perfect opportunity to learn about the park's history and culture. Wrapping Up The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a place of endless wonder and exploration. From the historic trails of Cades Cove to the breathtaking heights of Clingmans Dome, this park has something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or an adventurous exploration of the outdoors, the Smokies offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Remember to respect the park and its inhabitants, preserve its natural beauty, and, most importantly, enjoy the incredible experiences it offers. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not just a destination; it's an adventure that calls you back time and again. Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In Prague 10 Best Things To Do In Barcelona (Spain) 10 Best Things To Do In Dublin (Ireland)